Two teens shot at the Hollywood Shawnee apartments
Does the owner of the Hollywood Shawnee Apartments face legal liability after two teens were shot on the property?
One teen is in critical condition after two teenage boys were shot at the Hollywood Shawnee apartments, also known as the Hollywood West Apartments. Police say a 15-year-old was shot in the chest and was transported to the hospital where they were reported to be in critical condition. The other teen suffered a wound to their hand.
Police are still investigating what led up to the shooting and request anyone with more information to call.
Georgia Negligent Security Law
Negligent security happens when a property manager or owner doesn't take reasonable steps to keep the property safe. This can lead to someone getting hurt while on the property. Some examples of negligent security are:
- Not having enough lights in a parking lot
- Not fixing a broken door lock
- Not having enough security staff
In Georgia, if there’s a high chance of crime happening at an apartment complex, property owners are required by law to provide proper security. This could include things like clearly visible security cameras, security guards on-site, a fence with controlled access gates, or a guard station at the parking garage and entrance gate.
A History of Crime at the Hollywood Shawnee Apartments
Online reviews from residents mention poor maintenance and safety issues at the property. “I did not have to deal with problems of break-ins” that others did said one resident. They also noted “the grounds that was always littered with trash and plastic plates.”
As we reported earlier, a man was found shot dead outside the Hollywood Shawnee Apartments in March of 2022. In 2024, there have already been three deadly shootings along Hollywood Road. A man was found shot to death behind Reserve at Hollywood Apartments on Hollywood Road in June. A week later, a mother was shot to death in front of her young child on that same road. Then in July, a 16-year-old was killed in a shooting at Reserve at Hollywood Apartments.
Only Crime Victims or Their Relatives Can Demand Justice
In Georgia, apartment owners have to take basic steps to keep their properties safe from crime. While police can catch criminals and take them to court, they can’t make property owners improve safety or pay victims money.
If someone is a victim of a crime, or if their family is affected, they have to sue the property owner themselves to get compensation. This money can help pay for things like medical bills or lost wages. However, even though it can provide some financial relief, it doesn’t make up for the emotional pain caused by these upsetting events.
It's important to note that having to provide substantial financial compensation to victims could encourage property owners and managers to improve their security measures, which could help prevent future crimes. This proactive approach not only protects the community but also emphasizes the importance of accountability in maintaining a safe environment for all residents.
Together we can Make Atlanta Safe, one community at a time.
